Even if you have decided to go for vaginal delivery, it is important familiarize yourself with cesarean sections so you can be mentally prepared if a medical need for it arises. Learn more about this alternative to vaginal delivery and what to expect.

What is a Cesaerean?

A cesaerean section (also known as a C-section) is the procedure of delivering a baby via an abdominal incision. A C-section delivery is normally performed when a vaginal birth is not possible or is not safe for the mother and/or the baby. Sometimes, though, it is performed as an elective cesaerean, meaning the mother chooses to deliver her baby abdominally even though both the mother and child are generally healthy and there are no existing labour complications.

During a C-section, the incision is made in the mother's abdomen just above her pubic bone and in the uterus to remove the baby. The mother either gets local (spinal or epidural) anesthesia, where she is anesthetized from the chest to the legs, or a general one.

Once the incision is made, the amniotic fluid is drained and the baby is removed. The baby's nose and mouth are cleared of fluids and the umbilical cord is clamped and cut. The surgeon then proceeds to stitch up the incision. If the mother is awake during the procedure, she can see and hear the baby. The baby is then handed over to the pediatrician for further examination to ensure the baby is fine.